Its almost time for summer and that means warm days and potentially dry days as well! Water is a big issue that we need to be constantly aware of during the summer time. We don't want our course to be super dry but we also don't want it to be super wet. Both can cause problems for the turf. So we are always watching the weather and reading the moisture levels on the greens.  If the greens get to dry, everybody knows what happens. The grass wilts and starts to die, which no one wants to see dead grass on the greens and the rest of the course.  However if the grass is constantly over saturated with water we could start to see a wide variety of diseases. Which in turn looks bad and can damage or kill grass. This is why you will start to be seeing us checking the greens more often. Also over watering can shorten the roots of the plant. This is bad because without deep roots it is only getting water that is near the surface and may dry out faster. 

    Different types of grasses is another factor when it comes to moisture.  For example our fairways are zoysia grass, that is a warm season grass.  It's grown in warmer climates and is made to withstand drying out and less water.  We are in a transition zone here in Missouri and Kansas. Which means we can grow warm season and cool season grasses. If you are trying to grow a great lawn this summer just be aware of what type of grass you have or want to seed in. If you have an suggestions about the course and or questions don't hesitate to ask the club house or the turf crew!! 

Hunter Hill

Assistant Superintendent

 Heart of America Golf Course